Quick Answer: 5 Essential Steps
- Start Early: Begin preparation 2-4 weeks before boarding
- Visit First: Schedule a facility tour and meet & greet
- Practice Stays: Try daycare or short stays first
- Pack Comfort Items: Bring familiar bedding and toys
- Stay Calm: Your dog picks up on your emotions
After caring for hundreds of dogs at Paws & Applause, we've learned that preparation makes all the difference between a stressful experience and a fun vacation for your pup. Whether it's your dog's first boarding stay or they're a seasoned traveler, this guide will help ensure a positive experience for everyone.
Understanding Boarding Anxiety
It's completely normal for dogs (and their humans!) to feel anxious about boarding. Dogs are creatures of habit, and any change in routine can cause stress. Here's what we typically see:
Excited, curious, adapts quickly
Cautious, needs time to warm up
Very stressed, may refuse food
Good news: With proper preparation, even anxious dogs can have positive boarding experiences!
Preparation Timeline: 4 Weeks to Boarding
4 Weeks Before: Research & Book
- Research boarding facilities (read reviews, check certifications)
- Schedule facility tours
- Book your reservation (popular times fill quickly!)
- Verify vaccination requirements
3 Weeks Before: Health Check
- Schedule vet visit if vaccines need updating
- Get flea/tick prevention current
- Discuss any anxiety medications with your vet
- Update emergency contact information
2 Weeks Before: Practice Runs
- Schedule a daycare visit or short overnight stay
- Practice crate training if facility uses kennels
- Work on basic commands (especially "come" and "stay")
- Start packing items with your scent
1 Week Before: Final Preparations
- Confirm reservation and pickup/dropoff times
- Prepare detailed care instructions
- Pack boarding bag
- Take photos for identification
Ultimate Boarding Packing List
Essential Items:
- Food (enough for entire stay + 2 extra days)
- Medications in original containers with clear instructions
- Vaccination records (physical or digital copy)
- Emergency contact information
- Your vet's contact information
Comfort Items:
- Favorite blanket or bed (unwashed - keep your scent!)
- 2-3 familiar toys (avoid favorites they can't lose)
- Worn t-shirt with your scent
- Regular treats (in labeled container)
Optional Items:
- Special dietary supplements
- Grooming supplies if needed
- Calming aids (Thunder shirt, pheromone spray)
- Recent photo for identification
What NOT to Bring
- Irreplaceable items - They might get lost or damaged
- Rawhides or dangerous chews - Choking hazard without supervision
- Retractable leashes - Safety hazard in facility settings
- Glass containers - Breakage risk
- Excessive toys - 2-3 is plenty
Special Considerations by Dog Type
First-Time Boarders
If your dog has never been boarded before:
- Start with daycare visits to build familiarity
- Request extra attention from staff
- Consider a trial overnight before longer stays
- Leave detailed notes about preferences and routines
Senior Dogs
Older dogs need special consideration:
- Bring orthopedic bedding
- Provide detailed medication schedules
- Note mobility limitations
- Request quieter areas away from energetic puppies
Anxious Dogs
For dogs with separation anxiety:
- Discuss anti-anxiety medication with your vet
- Bring multiple comfort items
- Consider facilities with 24/7 supervision
- Ask about webcam access to check in
Special Needs Dogs
Dogs with medical conditions:
- Provide written care instructions
- Include vet's emergency contact
- Bring extra medications
- Discuss contingency plans with facility
Drop-Off Day: Setting the Right Tone
Morning of Boarding
- Keep your normal morning routine
- Give a good walk or play session
- Feed regular breakfast (unless instructed otherwise)
- Stay calm and positive - dogs sense your emotions!
The Drop-Off Process
- Keep it brief: Long goodbyes increase anxiety
- Stay upbeat: Use happy, excited tone
- Trust the staff: Let them take over quickly
- Don't look back: Confidence helps your dog adjust
"The hardest part is always the goodbye. But remember - most dogs settle within 15-30 minutes after their parents leave. We see it every day!" - Paws & Applause Staff
Staying Connected During Boarding
What to Expect
- Updates: Most facilities provide daily updates
- Photos: Many send pictures during stay
- Calls: Only for emergencies or concerns
- Visits: Generally not recommended (disrupts adjustment)
When to Call
DO call if:
- You forgot to mention important medical information
- Your return date changes
- Emergency contact info changes
DON'T call just to check in - this can actually increase your anxiety and doesn't help your dog!
Boarding Facility Red Flags
Avoid facilities that:
- Won't let you tour
- Don't require vaccinations
- Have no emergency vet plan
- Can't explain their daily routine
- Have high staff turnover
- Don't ask about your dog's needs
Pick-Up Day: Reunion Tips
What's Normal After Boarding
Don't worry if your dog:
- Seems tired: Boarding is exciting and exhausting!
- Drinks more water: Activity increases thirst
- Has loose stool: Excitement can affect digestion
- Seems clingy: They missed you too!
- Sleeps more: They need to recover from all the fun
Easing Back to Routine
- Give a calm greeting (avoid over-excitement)
- Offer water and a light meal
- Allow rest time
- Resume normal routine next day
- Monitor for any unusual behaviors
Success Story: From Anxious to Adventure
"Our Lab, Max, was terrified of boarding. We started with daycare visits, then overnight stays. Now he pulls us TO the door at Paws & Applause! The key was gradual exposure and finding the right facility that understood his needs."
- Sarah M., Maryville
Benefits of Professional Boarding
While it's natural to feel guilty about boarding, remember these benefits:
- Socialization: Supervised play with other dogs
- Exercise: More activity than typical home day
- Routine: Structured schedule reduces anxiety
- Safety: Trained staff and secure environment
- Medical attention: Quick response to any issues
Ready to Book Your Dog's Stay?
At Paws & Applause, we specialize in making first-time boarders feel at home. Our limited capacity means more individual attention and less stress for your pup.
What Makes Us Different:
- ✓ Only 10 dogs at a time (not 100+!)
- ✓ Home-like environment
- ✓ 24/7 supervision
- ✓ Trial daycare available
- ✓ Detailed daily updates